Club president Jose Castro has been in constant dialogue with the Croatian’s brother and agent, Dejan Rakitic, as Sevilla move to fend off immediate interest from top European clubs for their playermaker, such as Liverpool.

The 25-year-old’s current deal runs out in 2015, but includes a release clause of €40m. Seville have, however, persuaded the player to sign a new deal until 2018, but with a reduced buyout.

Rakitic insists he is happy at the club, but is adamant that he should have a much bigger say in the future of his career. The current deal clearly makes both parties feel that much more secure, but will put interested clubs, like Liverpool, on notice.

Rakitic has been in phenomenal form for the former Europa League winners this campaign, starting 16 La Liga games, scoring eight goals and assisting with a further six.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is said to have been interested in the player for some time, with the English press suggesting that Liverpool scouts were sent to watch Rakitic as recently as the end of last month.

Whilst a January transfer now seems a no-go, the good news for Liverpool is that Rakitic’s new deal could pave the way for him to ultimately follow ex-team-mates Alvaro Negredo and Jesus Navas to move to pastures new.

Tom Thorogood

I'm a 27 year old language teacher and writer based out in Mexico with a passion for football and swimming. I like to focus on the top European Leagues, especially La Liga, as well as the footballing development in Central and South America. My favourite teams include Derby County, Barcelona and Jagaures de Chiapas.